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Police patrols stepped up in Christmas crackdown

POLICE have issued a stern warning to revellers ahead of one of the busiest weekends of the year.

Party-goers are being reminded to drink responsibly tomorrow to avoid spending the night in a police cell.

The day has gained the nickname “Black Eye Friday” because many people leave work early to celebrate the beginning of the holidays, which can lead to trouble.

Barrow police patrols will be stepped up tomorrow and Saturday in a bid to keep town centre streets safe.

The Evening Mail has organised special coverage of the police operation as it unfolds via its website, including webchats with senior officers in the force and live updates from the police control room as incidents are reported across the borough.

South Cumbria’s area commander, Chief Superintendent Paul Kennedy, is reminding people that violence or aggressive behaviour will not be tolerated.

Ch Supt Paul Kennedy said: “We expect an increase in calls for services and we do expect more people to be on the streets of Barrow than probably any other night of the year.

“For that reason we have managed and arranged an increase in police presence in Barrow and that is to make sure we maintain law and order.

“I know that sounds very ‘policey’ but the whole point is to make sure people can enjoy Christmas and have a fantastic time and we are here to ensure that happens and people can go out safe and come home safe.

“People must understand that finishing work for Christmas does not give people the licence to go out, drink too much and behave violently, but unfortunately it happens.

“We really must give people the clear message that if you go out, drink too much and become violent or are involved in a fight, the police will intervene and you could be arrested. You could spoil your Christmas and your family’s Christmas.”

A series of videos will also be played live on the web during the day, highlighting, among other things, the misery of Christmas in the cells and the dangers of binge drinking.

Evening Mail deputy editor James Higgins said: “We are planning to link up with the police in a truly innovative way to give readers of the Evening Mail and its website a true insight into the challenges the force faces on one of its busiest days of the year.”